Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a bowl, mix the warm water 💧 with the sugar 🍬. Sprinkle the active dry yeast 🌟 over the water and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour 🌾 and salt 🧂. Mix them well.
- Make the Dough:
- Once the yeast is activated, add the yeast mixture and the olive oil 🧈 (or melted butter) to the flour mixture. If you’re using an egg 🍳, add it in now.
- Stir the mixture until it begins to come together into a dough.
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. You can add a little flour if the dough is too sticky. 💪
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–2 hours, or until it doubles in size. ⏳
- Shape the Bread:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a loaf by folding in the sides and rolling it tightly. 💫
- Second Rise:
- Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover it again and let it rise for about 30–45 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). 🔥
- Bake:
- Once the dough has risen, bake it in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. 🍞🔥
- Cool:
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your fluffy homemade bread! 😋
Hope this bread turns out as amazing as it sounds! 😍 Enjoy! 🍞